We've looked at how to recognize when you’re being ambushed by unexpected anniversary reactions following the death of your spouse/partner.
Now let’s talk about how to cope with these situations.
Anniversary reactions have a way of “sneaking up” and blindsiding us despite our best efforts to avoid them. Even the most subtle sights, sounds, smells, or other reminders can suddenly trigger powerful and often baffling reactions of loss.
Here are some ways to disarm those “sneak attacks”:
Now let’s talk about how to cope with these situations.
Anniversary reactions have a way of “sneaking up” and blindsiding us despite our best efforts to avoid them. Even the most subtle sights, sounds, smells, or other reminders can suddenly trigger powerful and often baffling reactions of loss.
Here are some ways to disarm those “sneak attacks”:
A) Take the time to identify what’s touched off your reaction (see our previous post).
B) Give yourself permission to feel the sadness associated with the event you’re remembering.
C) Assure yourself that now that you’re aware of a particular emotional trigger, you can better anticipate it in the future. This will give you greater control in dealing with the situation.
D) Allowing yourself to experience the feelings of loss means you’re taking another step forward in your mourning process.
Keep in mind that although there are always these emotional triggers out there, the pain you feel will become less intense over time.
We’d love to hear about ways you’ve found to cope with anniversary reactions, especially the “sneaky” types.
We’d love to hear about ways you’ve found to cope with anniversary reactions, especially the “sneaky” types.
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